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It wasn't the hottest day on record, but on Monday Winnipeggers' water use was the third highest it's been all decade. Peak hourly water use reached 19.5 million litres at 9 p.m.

To put that in perspective, Winnipeggers usually use about 12.5 million litres in the summer during a peak hour.

But it's still less than half the record of 40 million litres set in 1988.

Diane Sacher, manager of water services for the city, said that summer water use is generally double to quadruple what's used in the winter, as lawns and gardens get watered and pools get re-filled.

She credited Winnipeggers for keeping their water use comparatively low by installing water-efficient toilets, faucets, showerheads and appliances.

“The significant reduction in peak use during periods of hot dry weather demonstrates that Winnipeggers recognize that water is an essential resource and are embracing good conservation practices," Sacher said.

The increased flow has caused discoloured tap water in at least 53 Winnipeg homes. The city advises residents to run the tap for 10 minutes then wait 30 minutes. Drinking discoloured water should not cause illness but is not recommended as it may smell or taste unpleasant.